by Editor | Oct 1, 2005 | Europe, Monaco, Simon and Baker Travel Review
Though we were well fed aboard our luxury yacht while cruising from Italy to Spain, we were celebrating a special occasion and longed to find a memorable setting. We sought to book something in Monaco where our ship was moored but as luck would have it the restaurant of our choice was closed that day. After consulting several sources including the yacht’s resident gourmet (and Maitre d’Hotel ) we decided on the Chateau de la Chevre d’Or (in English, the castle of the golden goat). Thanks to very able last minute maneuvering from Chritine at our ship’s concierge desk, a most accommodating French lady, we found ourselves sipping perfectly chilled champagne on the terrace of the restaurant a scant three hours after requesting the reservations.
by Editor | Oct 1, 2005 | Africa, Port-Elizabeth, Simon and Baker Travel Review, South Africa
What could be better than a top of the line game viewing boutique lodge filled with healthy animals in a malaria free reserve? One with a charming holistic on-site spa. The Eagles Crag Spa was just what the doctor ordered. After two days of international travel with so many connections I lost count, the thought of a spa treatment was inspirational.
by Editor | Oct 1, 2005 | Europe, Monaco, Simon and Baker Travel Review
Arriving by sea into the new quay in Monte Carlo, Monaco was an eye opener. The view of the famed kingdom from the water was richer in some ways than the impression we had while walking or driving around. After several days enduring uncertain weather and overcast skies, we were concerned our sightseeing tour would be cancelled. Conveniently the sky cleared long enough for us to enjoy the day. At 9:30 a.m. sharp, a Heli Air Monaco van pulled up right in front of our vessel having deftly maneuvered through the port security staff. We were the only passengers and the drive took but a few minutes from the port to Monaco’s busy heliport.
by Editor | Oct 1, 2005 | Barcelona, Europe, Simon and Baker Travel Review, Spain
From the outside the Hotel Arts Barcelona looked like another office building with a distinctive metal sculpture in the front. It had a tall rectangular shape and external white metal structures revealed little about its contents. Inside, we rode an elevator from the ground floor to the lobby, where we began to discover the property’s upscale ambiance. Beautiful flowers, scattered in the lobby and common areas, brightened the earth tones of the hotel’s interior. As soon as we exited the elevator we found the reception desk to the left of the sunlit lobby, decorated in sober tones. Having been evicted from our comfortable yachting digs first thing that morning, we migrated wearily to the striking Hotel Arts, relying on the Ritz Carlton reputation for a warm welcome in spite of the early hour. At the reception, Diego greeted us kindly and promised to find us a room as soon as he could.
by Editor | Sep 1, 2005 | Books, Products, Simon and Baker Travel Review, Travel Books
We found this book exceptionally informative. It was actually two guides in one. The first part was a fascinating 160-page treasure trove of information about the flora, fauna, cultures and socio-political events that shaped the Amazonian world, including a number of vignettes on history, climate and current ecological challenges. Additionally, it provided us with a wealth of realistic facts on topics ranging from health issues to what to pack for a visit to the area. We found it an invaluable resource in planning our recent visit to the Western Amazon. We subsequently had daily opportunities to be glad that we had followed the authors’ sound practical advice on clothing, footwear and personal necessities selection. This enabled us to travel more comfortably, and lighter than we ever thought possible.
by Editor | Sep 1, 2005 | Europe, Italy, Rome, Simon and Baker Travel Review
Arriving at the Hotel Hassler after a transatlantic flight and dizzying taxi drive from the airport, I was relieved to discover my room was ready. Inside, the charming and comfortable black and white themed room with a delightful view of the city and welcome fruit basket, helped reenergize me. In spite of the lack of sleep and jet lag, I was eager to revisit Rome after a long absence. From the small balcony I could see the Spanish steps and beyond them, in the distance, the Vatican. And what a location! The Hassler is in the heart of Rome, at the top of the famous Spanish Steps, an excellent point of departure for tourist oriented visitors. The wholly independent and small family run hotel, which has been temporary home to many celebrities over the years, had a historic character.
